‘Little Hands (Les Petites Mains)’ (2017) Explores Violence Through a Child’s Eyes

Winner of the Best Short Film Cesar Award, Remi Allier’s Little Hands (Les Petites Mains) shows a violent situation from the point of view of two year-old child. The film stars newcomer Emile Moulron Lejeune, Jan Hammenecker (Cub 2014), Steve Driesen (Landes 2013), and Sandrine Blancke (The Son Of The Shark 1993).

Synopsis:

Leo, 2, is the son of the acting manager of a chemical plant. When employees find out that the direction is about to close the factory, Bruno, a more radical worker, kidnaps Leo to negotiate.

Even with a short run time, it’s incredible how many emotions Little Hands (Les Petites Mains) manages to evoke. The film starts and ends with the chaos of a riot, but the calm in between can be the very thing that changes the soul of a man. Despite a violent meeting, two year-old Leo and factory worker Bruno forge a brief, achingly real relationship based on the innocence of a child. In Leo’s eyes, none of the world is terrible, and even Bruno’s earlier act of crime against him can be forgiven by the simple act of an offering of food.

The performances are amazing, considering one of the most prominent roles is played by a toddler. Emile Moulron Lejeune possesses such gentle innocence and sweetness that he could soften even the darkest heart. Bruno’s transformation is an internal one, but it’s handled with great care and deftness by Jan Hammenecker.

The world is full of terrible harshness and violence, but sometimes it’s full of forgiveness, too. We can all use this reminder once in while, and Little Hands (Les Petites Mains) does this so beautifully. Highly recommended.